About Us

Established in 1994, the Oil Center Renaissance Association (OCRA) is a non-profit (501c6) volunteer association. Our mission is:

"To unite the business community to preserve, enhance and assure the continued viability of the area recognized as Lafayette’s Oil Center, while encouraging orderly growth, avoiding urban decay and promoting a positive image of the Oil Center."

OCRA, produces the Annual FESTIVAL OF LIGHT (in it's 14th year, to be held Fri., Dec 2, starting at 5 PM), is developing and maintaining the Oil Center Honor Park, a beautification project in the Coolidge Boulevard median; coordinates the annual Pre-Labor Day Sidewalk Sale; and implements co-op advertising projects.

In addition, OCRA has a high level of community involvement through partnerships with local charities and area schools. The Festival of Light provides appropriate service opportunities for area high school Key Clubs and other campus organizations and volunteer intern opportunities for University of LA-Lafayette students. The Festival of Light also provides a venue for area school bands/choirs and church choirs to feature their talents.

Throughout the years, we have partnered with these charitable associations:

• Acadiana Cares
• Acadiana Outreach Center's Lighthouse Shelter for Women with Children
• American Cancer Society
• Faith House
• Hospice of Acadiana
• Krewe des Chien
• Lafayette Community Healthcare Clinic
• Miles Perrett Center
• Share the Light
• St. Jude's Dream Home
• Healing House
• United Blood Services

OCRA is the driving force behind the revitalization, improvement and vision of the future for the Oil Center. It aggressively pursues the generation of a positive image and the continuing vitality of this historic area in which we live and work. The membership is a diverse group of businesses and residents who realize the benefits of maintaining and providing for the future growth of the Oil Center community.